Job Title: Microbiology Laboratory Technician

Job Description

This role focuses on performing a wide range of microbiological quality control tests to ensure the safety, effectiveness, and regulatory compliance of skincare and sunscreen products. You will work in a cGMP-compliant microbiology laboratory, supporting rapid company growth by delivering accurate, timely testing results and contributing to continuous improvement in quality processes.

Responsibilities

• Inspect and test products for microbial evaluation at various stages of the production process to determine their quality status.
• Perform daily cleaning of the microbiology laboratory and equipment while strictly following safety guidelines, company procedures, and policies.
• Maintain an accurate inventory of supplies and chemicals required for microbial testing, ensuring materials are available when needed.
• Receive samples for microbial testing, inspect containers for integrity, verify label information, and log samples into the sample receiving logbook.
• Calibrate microbial testing equipment as required and record all calibration results in the daily logbook.
• Prepare supplies and perform environmental monitoring (EM) sampling of routine laboratory hoods and scheduled manufacturing and filling areas in accordance with USP <795>.
• Prepare and autoclave media and reagents required for microbial testing, ensuring proper sterilization and documentation.
• Conduct growth promotion and sterility testing of new media and reagent lots prior to release, following USP <61> methods.
• Apply aseptic techniques consistently when performing all microbial testing to prevent contamination and ensure reliable results.
• Perform Microbial Limit Testing and suitability testing in accordance with USP <60>, <61>, and <62>, Antimicrobial Preservative Effectiveness testing per USP <51>, and water testing in line with USP <1231>.
• Perform Rapid Microbiological Methods (RMM) testing per USP <1071> on finished products, bulk materials, and stability samples, and schedule testing to support on-time product release.
• Follow current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) as provided in training, and accurately record, file, and retain paperwork and samples in compliance with cGMP requirements.
• Adhere to proper gowning procedures and requirements in the microbiology lab during all testing and related activities.
• Compile and evaluate microbiological data to determine the quality status of bulk products, finished products, stability samples, and other special tests as assigned.
• Communicate test results, observations, and critical findings clearly and promptly to relevant team members, and participate in team meetings as needed.
• Demonstrate flexibility to work weekends and late hours when required to meet production and testing demands.

Essential Skills

• 2–3 years of experience working in a microbiology laboratory within a pharmaceutical, personal care, or industrial environment (1 year may be considered but 2 years is preferred).
• 2–3 years of QA/QC microbial laboratory experience in the pharmaceutical or related industry.
• Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, life sciences, or a closely related field.
• Hands-on experience working under USP testing environments, specifically USP <60>, <61>, <62>, and <51>.
• Proficiency with autoclave operation for media and reagent preparation and sterilization.
• Experience with environmental monitoring activities, including adherence to USP <757> guidelines.
• Experience performing water testing by filtration, including bioburden assessments and plating techniques.
• Strong background in microbiology laboratory practices, including aseptic technique, sterility testing, microbial limit testing, and quality control procedures.
• Working knowledge of cGMP requirements and experience operating in a regulated laboratory environment.
• Comfort working with microbial lab media, disinfectants, and chemicals, and using appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in personal care or industrial laboratory settings is preferred.
• Familiarity with rapid microbiological methods (RMM) and USP <1071> testing is beneficial.
• Ability to compile, interpret, and report microbiological data accurately and clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work with minimal supervision while maintaining high standards of quality and compliance.
• Strong sense of urgency and commitment to meeting or exceeding expectations of internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborative, congenial, and engaged team mind